Swine flu alert at Wimbledon

Wimbledon was hit by a swine flu scare this afternoon as several officials were sent home after showing signs of the illness.

The All England Club said "a small number" of staff had shown flu-like symptoms and further investigations were being made.

"Having consulted with the Health Protection Agency, we have been reassured that since the incidence is entirely in line with the wider London community, there is no particular extra risk connected with the event" said a spokesman.

Officials issued guidelines for players and fans to ensure they took care if they showed any signs of the illness such as coughing and sneezing and how to prevent it spreading. Asked about the swine flu scare, Wimbledon champion Venus Williams said: "I just got a letter. I haven't read it. But I guess there's sicknesses all around. Hopefully the players won't get sick."

Commenting on fears over ball boys and girls handling players' towels, she said: "Well, hopefully our immune systems are strong enough. That's what they're there for."